The Lost Generation, born in the early 1900s, came of age during World War I and reacted to the trauma and upheaval with a profound sense of disillusionment and a crisis of values. This is reflected in the literature of the era, as seen in the works of Hemingway and Fitzgerald, which capture the profound dissatisfaction with traditional social norms and the search for new meaning in a fractured post-war world. (Zhang, 2022; Horton & Edwards, 2017)
The Greatest Generation (1901–1927) experienced the hardships of the Great Depression, followed by the collective effort of World War II. This forged enduring values of personal responsibility, humility, work ethic, frugality, commitment, integrity, and self-sacrifice. These characteristics contributed to the stability and economic growth of the postwar period, even as some members held outdated views on race and gender shaped by their times. (FamilySearch, 2024; Britannica, 2023)
Baby Boomers (1946–1964), shaped by the cultural revolutions of the 1960s and 70s, challenged previous norms through movements for civil rights, feminism, and anti-war activism. Identification with countercultural ideals influenced their attitudes throughout life, including retirement perspectives. This generation used emerging media to spread new cultural values and redefine personal freedom and social roles. (Westwood et al., 2022)
Generation X (1965–1980) grew up during economic shifts and the rise of digital technology, developing traits of independence, skepticism, and adaptability. They witnessed major global political transformations such as the fall of the Berlin Wall. This generation values education, creativity, and practical problem-solving, but is also characterized by fragmentation and pragmatism. (Abbasi et al., 2023)
Millennials (1981–1996) have been profoundly shaped by the digital revolution, social media, and global crises like 9/11 and the 2008 financial collapse. They show high levels of trust, optimism, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit and have transformed workplaces through new technology-driven norms such as the gig economy. (Gettysburg College, 2023)
Generation Z (1997–2012) are digital natives facing climate anxiety, pandemic disruptions, and intense social justice engagement. Eco-anxiety impacts mental health significantly in this cohort, but also motivates activism and a push towards global solutions. They are characterized by high ambition, creativity, social consciousness, and a blend of individualism with concerns about collective well-being. (IJPSL, 2022; PMC, 2021)
In summary, each generation is formed and transformed by its historical and cultural context, with unique responses to inherited challenges. This scholarly overview shows the evolution from trauma and disillusionment to digital activism and climate awareness, reflecting humanity’s ongoing adaptation and striving for progress.
DoubleSpeak 